Devoted to the auto industry – builders to enthusiasts

Part 5 of an 11-part series.

A friend recently moved into a new law office and what better vehicle to have available than a Honda Ridgeline to help him move?

A book case and shelves fit in the bed. And, sure, that's an easy load for any pickup truck. But what was surprising was the available back seat space. With the pull of a lever on each side of the 60/40 configuration, the seats up-folded flush and a cavernous space appeared.

Lawyers have plenty of files, and we fit four rows, three boxes high, into the area. And after two trips, we'd begun to make good progress in my friend's massive task.

The ability to move large quantities of boxes doesn't warrant the outright purchase of a truck. But it does provide one good example of how Honda has again crafted another innovative vehicle.

Introduced at car shows in 2005 and first made available nationwide as a 2006 model, the Ridgeline could, in fact, be categorized as the anti-pickup truck. At least that's my I wrote last year, and there's no reason to change my opinion with 2007 model

Just like its sibling, the Element, the Ridgeline doesn't look like any of the long-standing Honda line models. It appears more futuristic than functional. But just like the Element, which didn't fit the sports utility mold when it was introduced, Honda's pickup up distinguishes itself quickly and on many levels. Mostly, it's extraordinarily functional and cleverly designed.

My test drive was the four-door RTL model with navigation system, one of five available model configurations. It included a 247-horsepower, 24-valve V6 engine with a five-speed automatic transmission. The Ridgeline also features a five-foot-long cargo bed, independent rear suspension and unibody construction.

The cargo box is made from dent-free plastic with a steel-enforced floor and it has an hidden locking trunk bin with a release valve.

Standard throughout the line are 17-inch wheels, bucket seats, the 60/40 split rear bench seat, antilock, four-wheel disc breaks and a rear window with a power-sliding center section. The RTL edition also included leather upholstery and leather steering wheel, heated front seats, heated power mirrors and universal garage door opener.

The Ridgeline drives like a car. With its upright, firm seats, expansive leg and head room, smooth and sturdy steering and handling and quiet ride, the unique-looking truck simply shines.

Facts & Figures: Safety – Driver and front passenger dual-stage front, side and side-curtain airbags; Fuel Mileage (estimates) – 16 mpg (city), 21 mpg (highway); Warranty – Bumper to bumper, 3/36,000 miles; Powertrain, 6 years/60,000 miles; Corrosion, 5 years/unlimited miles; No scheduled tune-ups for 100,000 miles; Base Price - $34,940.00